Suttur, December 18, 2018: Ravindra Katti, Deputy Programme Director at the Agriculture Department, emphasized the importance of farmers availing themselves of crop insurance and government schemes during adverse situations such as crop loss and natural calamities.
His remarks came during the ‘Special Awareness Programme’ on the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana, organized by the Government of India’s Kshetra Janasamparka Kaaryalaya in association with JSS Mahavidyapeetha, Child Development Project, and Janashikshana Samsthe. The event took place at the ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Suttur.
Katti highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana as a lifeline for farmers, providing vital support during challenging times.
H.K. Manjunath, Chief Manager of the Suttur Branch of the State Bank of India, mentioned that more than 80 percent of farmers who have availed loans within the bank’s jurisdiction are covered under the crop insurance scheme.
Dr. T.C. Poornima, Senior Officer at Bharatiya Vartha Seve, expressed concern for the hardships faced by farmers and stressed the importance of utilizing the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana to protect their interests.
Dr. Arun Balamatti, Chief Scientist and Head of JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, highlighted the efforts being made by scientists to empower farmers through education, innovative discoveries, and cultivation methods that reduce losses.
The program was inaugurated by K.S. Linganna, President of Biligere Gram Panchayat, and attended by Zilla Panchayat member Sadananda. A.P. Ramesh, Director of Janashikshana Samsthe, Sudha, H.V. Divya, Dr. Satish M.C., and others were also present.
The event featured various competitions for women participants, a street play, and cultural programs organized by the Sangeetha and Nataka Division of the Government of India. Additionally, booklets providing information on government programs and other publications were released. A special jatha (rally) was held to raise awareness among villagers about the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana.